If the upcoming budget is approved, students at schools like Lincoln Avenue Elementary would have art, music and gym every day.

MPS officials are looking at adding 142 teachers in those three areas as part of a three-year effort. The 2014-15 budget would create 50 of those positions.

"This will bring so much, so much needed release for (students)," Principal Miguel Sanchez said. "The kids actually focus more. We have better attendance when we have those days when we have gym and music."

Sanchez said one of his goals, hopefully by the end of this initiative, is to have a complete elementary orchestra.

MPS also wants to direct more money into the classroom.

For Sanchez, he chose to get rid of his assistant principal and use that salary as support for the kids.

"This allows the opportunity to have a closer relationship with the family, making a stronger relationship with them, so we can not only educate the kid, but we can also educate the parent," Sanchez said.

MPS will hear public comments on the proposed budget on May 1 and May 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the MPS Central Services auditorium, 5225 W. Vliet St.